The California History–Social Science Project (CHSSP) has been awarded a prestigious American History and Civics Education—National Activities Grant from the U.S. Department of Education for our new initiative, Foundations of Freedom: Strengthening Civic Learning in Schools. This three-year program—launched in honor of America’s 250th anniversary in 2026—will expand high-quality civic education opportunities for teachers and students across California and beyond.

As the nation prepares to commemorate the Semiquincentennial, the Foundations of Freedom program arrives at a pivotal moment. Civic understanding and engagement are essential components of a thriving democracy, yet many teachers report needing greater support, resources, and community to navigate this complex and rapidly evolving field. With this grant, UC Davis and the CHSSP will help meet that need by investing deeply in California’s educators—especially those serving rural and historically under-resourced communities.

The Foundations of Freedom program allows the CHSSP to work with two intensive, year-long seminar cohorts. TK-12th grade teachers will engage deeply with America’s founding documents, constitutional principles, and formative political ideas, and their legacies, all while exploring innovative and inquiry-driven approaches to classroom instruction. Through sustained study, discussion, and hands-on curriculum development, teachers will strengthen both their content knowledge and their ability to cultivate thoughtful, informed, and empowered students.  Foundations of Freedom will culminate in a national conference that will showcase teacher-led innovations, share research findings, and highlight promising strategies for strengthening civic learning nationwide. It will also offer a platform for educators to reflect on the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence and reimagine how its principles can inspire students in today’s classrooms.

With this new federal investment, UC Davis and the CHSSP are poised to help a new generation of California teachers and students connect meaningfully with the texts, traditions, and democratic ideals that continue to shape our shared future.

Application opens in late 2025 - click here for more information